Quickly Becoming Conley: Choosing Your Bridal Party

By Rebekah Mulford

“There are friendships imprinted in our hearts that will never be diminished by time and distance.”

—Dodinsky

This quote perfectly describes my deepest friendships. I don’t talk to my closest friends as much as I would like. I don’t see them all the time. Some of them live far away. But no matter the time or distance, we can pick up our friendship easily, like a comfy sweater that always fits perfectly.

Choosing your bridal party can be tricky. You don’t want to offend anyone or make a close friend sad, but you literally can’t choose everyone…unless you want a dozen people standing beside you. Danny and I picked a number early on. Six. That’s it. I had at least ten people I could have asked, but I hoped that the friends I didn’t ask would understand.

If you’re having a hard time picking those special people who you would like to be in your bridal party, here are some criteria that might help you pick:

1) Pick people who have had an impact on your life.

Every woman I chose to be a bridesmaid has influenced and inspired me in some way. When Danny was picking his groomsmen he said, “without these men, I wouldn’t be marrying you.” I like that. Surround yourself with the most meaningful people in your life, not just a friend you met last month.

2) Pick people you can count on.

I have been a bridesmaid five times. Brides need lots of help. There’s always little details that need to be pulled together at the last minute. Although I’m trying to do as much as possible ahead of time, we’re going to need help. I chose people I could count on—people who love me and I know would want to lend a helping hand.

3) Who do you picture by your side?

If you’re still having a hard time narrowing it down, take a moment and visualize yourself at the altar. Who is standing beside you? Who will make that day more complete? Pick those people.

Something else to consider…make the wedding day special for everyone involved. Since your bridesmaids will probably be working very hard to make your wedding perfect, make sure they feel appreciated. Think about asking them to be your bridesmaid in a creative way. There’s also a number of little things you can do before the ceremony—gifts, cards and a grateful attitude to name a few. Small gifts of appreciation are common at weddings. I’ve bought my ladies something they can wear on the day of the wedding and use afterwards. No spoilers. And be sure to party it up ahead of time with an unforgettable bachelorette party!

As my wedding is fast approaching (less than a month away), I am so excited that I get to celebrate this momentous day with these women who have meant so much to me.

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